In the Observer Food Monthly (OFM) reader's award, the eatery was voted one of the best locations in which to dine in Southern England. It was described as a 'much lauded fish restaurant, toe-wettingly close to the sea'. The establishment was also the only restaurant across the southern counties of Dorset, Hampshire and Somerset to make the shortlist in 'The Best 50 Sunday Lunches' UK eating guide in the Independent newspaper. Mike Calvert, general manager of WestBeach, explained: "We're having an incredible year in terms of being recognised nationally for our fresh and innovative offerings, firstly receiving recommendation in the Michelin Guide 2008 and now we're being celebrated in The Observer and the Independent in the same month." The eatery prides itself on sourcing and serving the freshest daily catch from local fisherman just metres from the kitchens. Previous accolades achieved by WestBeach include a four out of five star review by Sunday Times food critic AA Gill, Best Seafood Restaurant in England for 2005/2006 and Best Tourism Restaurant at the Dorset Tourism Awards 2007.